Communication5 min read

Mind your presence — on screen and in person

With most interviews now virtual, your camera setup and body language quietly shape the verdict.

Roughly seven in ten interviews are now virtual. Non-verbal signals still land — through a webcam they are just easier to get wrong. Confidence and engagement are part of the "would I want this person on my team?" judgement that runs underneath every round.

Get the virtual basics right

These cost nothing and a surprising number of candidates skip them.

Camera at eye level, light in front of you (a window or lamp), not behind.
Look at the camera when making a key point — it reads as eye contact.
Test your mic and internet beforehand; have mobile data as a backup in case of an outage.
A plain, tidy background and a quiet room signal that you take this seriously.

Project engagement, not anxiety

Sit up, nod when you follow, and let your voice carry energy — a flat monotone reads as disinterest even when you are deeply engaged. In person, a firm handshake, open posture, and not fidgeting do the same job. You are showing the interviewer what it would be like to collaborate with you daily.

Key takeaways

Fix your camera, lighting, and audio before the call — most candidates do not.
Look at the camera for key points; keep energy in your voice.
Treat presence as part of the "would I work with this person?" signal.

Put it into practice

Run an AI mock interview and get honest, real-time feedback. Free — bring your own AI key.

Start a practice interview